NEW YORK.- The Metropolitan Museum of Art today announced that it has retained the New York-based executive search firm Phillips Oppenheim to help organize and staff the international search for the institution’s next Director. The firm will work closely with the Museum’s Trustees’ recently designated Search Committee, which is chaired by Annette de la Renta, with S. Parker Gilbert serving as vice-chairman.

Philippe de Montebello, who has served as Director of the Metropolitan since 1977, announced his retirement on January 9, effective December 30, 2008, or when his successor is named. Phillips Oppenheim, which specializes in executive searches for the not-for-profit sector with a special expertise and record of accomplishment in the museum field, has identified principals Laurie Nash and Sarah James to staff the search. Inquiries should be directed to Ms. Nash or Ms. James at 212-953-1770, or at mma@phillipsoppenheim.com.

“We are delighted to commence work with Phillips Oppenheim on this vital effort,” commented James R. Houghton, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, who serves as an ex-officio member of the Trustees Search Committee. “Nothing the Trustees will do in the coming year is as crucial to the institution’s future as this search, and with the support of this accomplished firm, we feel that we have taken a major step toward fulfilling our mission. My fellow Trustees and I know that Phillips Oppenheim will provide important support as we commence our global search for Philippe de Montebello’s successor. The committee members look forward to working with Laurie Nash and Sarah James in the months ahead.”

Joining Mrs. de la Renta, Mr. Gilbert, and Mr. Houghton on the Trustees’ Search Committee are: Daniel Brodsky, Russell Carson, Robert Joffe, Susana Torruella Leval, Cynthia Hazen Polsky, Frank Richardson, James Shipp, Lulu Wang, and Shelby White.